How do you know if you have a thyroid problem?
Thyroid problems can cause symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, mood shifts and sensitivity to heat or cold. If you notice ongoing or unexplained symptoms, a blood test can help determine if your thyroid is not working properly.
You know what it’s like when something in your body feels off - your energy is low, your weight changes or your mood shifts. In some cases, these symptoms may be linked to your thyroid.
Nestled in the front of your neck, between your voice box (larynx) and your windpipe (trachea), is a small gland about two inches wide and one inch tall. It has two lobes connected by a thin bridge, giving it a butterfly shape. It’s called the thyroid and its job is to produce certain hormones.
Those hormones help manage many of your body’s functions. In fact, your thyroid affects nearly every system in your body. It helps convert carbohydrates into energy, breaks down fats for fuel and supports muscle repair.
Your thyroid sends hormones through your bloodstream to your body’s cells, where they help control how quickly your body uses energy (metabolism). When your thyroid produces more hormones, your body burns more calories and your metabolism speeds up. When it produces fewer hormones, your metabolism slows down.
Grishma Sheth, MD, an endocrinologist with Banner – University Medicine, explained more about thyroid conditions and what symptoms to watch for.
Common symptoms of thyroid problems
The symptoms of thyroid problems can vary depending on whether your thyroid is overactive or underactive. Some symptoms may overlap or be caused by other conditions, so it’s important to see a health care provider for a diagnosis.
Signs of hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
- Weight gain
- Fatigue
- Dry skin
- Hair loss
- Feeling cold
- Depression
- Slower heart rate
- Constipation
Signs of hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
- Weight loss
- Rapid or irregular heart rate
- Anxiety or irritability
- Sweating more than usual
- Tremors
- Difficulty sleeping
- Increased bowel movements
- Bulging eyes
Other symptoms of thyroid problems may include:
- Mood changes
- Weakness
- Lethargy
- Goiter (a visible swelling in the neck)
- Skin changes
Types of thyroid conditions
You can develop several types of thyroid problems:
- Hyperthyroidism: An overactive thyroid that produces too much hormone. It can be caused by Graves’ disease, thyroid nodules or inflammation.
- Hypothyroidism: An underactive thyroid that doesn’t produce enough hormone. It can be caused by Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, postpartum thyroiditis or iodine deficiency.
- Goiter: An enlarged thyroid gland that may be linked to hormone imbalance, inflammation or growths.
- Thyroid nodules: Lumps in the thyroid that can be benign or cancerous.
- Thyroid cancer: A less common but often treatable type of cancer.
“Hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are the most common thyroid conditions,” Dr. Sheth said. Both are more common in women than in men.
Each condition affects hormone levels differently, which is why symptoms can vary from person to person.
What to do if you have thyroid symptoms
If you have symptoms that could point to a thyroid condition, it’s important to see a health care provider.
Thyroid problems can be serious, but they are usually treatable. Without treatment, they may lead to complications such as heart disease, stroke, infertility or miscarriage.
When you see your provider, they may:
- Ask about your symptoms and medical history
- Perform a physical exam and check your neck
- Order blood tests to measure thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels
“Thyroid problems are diagnosed with a blood test that measures TSH,” Dr. Sheth said.
Blood tests are the most reliable way to diagnose thyroid conditions.
Depending on the results, treatment may include:
- Medication to replace or reduce thyroid hormone
- Radioactive iodine therapy
- Surgery in some cases
If you are taking medication, your provider will monitor your thyroid levels regularly to make sure they stay in a healthy range.
How to support thyroid health
You can support your thyroid and overall health by:
- Eating a balanced diet with fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean protein
- Getting regular physical activity
- Prioritizing quality sleep
- Managing stress through relaxation techniques
Frequently asked questions about thyroid problems
What are early warning signs of thyroid problems?
Early signs may include fatigue, weight changes, mood shifts and sensitivity to temperature.
How do you know if your thyroid is off?
A blood test that measures thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is the most reliable way to check thyroid function.
When should you see a doctor for thyroid symptoms?
You should see a health care provider if symptoms are ongoing, worsening or interfering with your daily life.
Are thyroid problems serious?
They can be, but most thyroid conditions are manageable with proper diagnosis and treatment.
The bottom line
Your thyroid plays an important role in regulating many functions in your body. When it isn’t working properly, you may notice changes in your energy, weight, mood or heart rate.
If you have symptoms that could be related to your thyroid, a health care provider can help determine the cause and guide you toward the right treatment.
Need help with thyroid concerns?
Connect with a Banner Health provider to discuss your symptoms and get the care you need.
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- Is It Just Stress or Are My Hormones Out of Whack?
- What Causes Moon Face and How to Reduce Swelling
Content in this article was updated on April 1, 2026.
